§ Mr. Bernie GrantTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what proposals he has to ensure that a woman will not be compelled to claim maintenance from her child's father(a) before the implementation of the Child Support Act 1991 and (b) afterwards.
§ Mr. BurtThere is currently no requirement for a mother to co-operate with the Department of Social Security in seeking maintenance from the father of her child, though the great majority do so willingly. From April 1993, parents with care who are getting income support, family credit or disability working allowance will be required to co-operate with the Child Support Agency in seeking maintenance, unless the agency is satisfied that compliance would risk causing harm or undue distress to the parent with care or to any child living with her.